Pete Hegseth

President Trump shared an article featuring the Pink Triangle, once a Nazi symbol for gay men in concentration camps. His administration has rapidly altered LGBTQ+ policies, including banning transgender individuals from military service. The article highlights stark differences between Trump's military and Biden's, emphasizing aggression. The Pink Triangle's connection to the Holocaust raises significant concerns.

The United States has launched a series of airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen following attacks on American and allied shipping. Defense secretary pete hegseth emphasised that the strikes will continue until the Houthis cease shooting at ships and assets. President Trump and other officials have warned Iran, backing the Houthis, to halt their support.

Elon Musk met with NSA chief Timothy Haugh to discuss aligning both organizations with the new administration's priorities, potentially hinting at cuts to America's spy services. Musk's efforts to slash government spending have so far spared intelligence agencies, but buyout proposals at the CIA and hints at NSA cuts suggest changes may be imminent.

The US administration ousted the majority of the USIP board and appointed a new leader at the Washington headquarters. Representatives from the Department of Government Efficiency entered the premises amidst objections, enforcing a presidential executive order aimed at downsizing the organisation.

Ukraine has endorsed a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, with the U.S. agreeing to lift restrictions on military aid and intelligence sharing. Following negotiations in Saudi Arabia, both nations aim to finalize a deal on Ukrainian minerals. President Trump has temporarily halted military aid to Ukraine, emphasizing the pursuit of peace.

The Trump administration took decisive action on March 17, 2025, by firing most of the US Institute of Peace's board members, including CEO George Moose. This move follows an executive order aimed at reducing federal agencies tied to foreign assistance. USIP, an independent nonprofit, clashed with the administration over its autonomy, resulting in legal threats. This is part of a broader effort to dismantle international aid-related entities.

Sweden's foreign minister, Maria Malmer Stenergard, emphasizes the importance of democracies uniting to uphold a rules-based order in both Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific. Stenergard also discusses Sweden's defence cooperation with India and their commitment to NATO while addressing security concerns related to China and Russia.

A US judge blocked President Trump's transgender military ban, ruling it likely violates constitutional protections. The decision, affecting thousands of transgender service members, was postponed until Friday to allow for an appeal. This follows multiple legal challenges to Trump's policies, including recent blocks on orders concerning transgender youth and athletes.

The Netherlands seeks to deepen its defence collaboration with India, particularly in dual-use technologies like drones, AI, and semiconductors. Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans expressed plans to upgrade bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, emphasizing robust security guarantees for Ukraine and reciprocal military exercises in the Indo-Pacific.

Donald Trump has rekindled the US-China trade war by imposing 20% tariffs on Chinese imports, citing national security concerns. This move has led to retaliatory measures from China, including tariffs and increased military spending. Both nations are poised for a prolonged economic conflict, with significant stakes for global trade and geopolitical supremacy.

The Trump administration has halted the use of military aircraft for deporting migrants due to high costs and inefficiencies. Military flights, initially used to enforce strict immigration policies, have proven too expensive, with some costing millions of dollars while facing restrictions and refusals from certain countries.

Sweden's Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard emphasized the importance of democracies upholding a rules-based order, particularly in the Indo-Pacific where China poses challenges. Sweden supports India's Make in India initiative, contributing through defence cooperation. She backed Nato and discussed potential India-EU FTA benefits, highlighting India's vital role in maintaining global peace and security.

The Pentagon is deploying around 3,000 additional active-duty troops to the US-Mexico border to enhance security and prevent illegal immigration. This increase is part of President Trump's efforts to secure the border, with the total number of US troops in the area rising to approximately 12,200.

US Cyber Command has been ordered to cease offensive operations against Russia to bring Putin to the negotiating table on Ukraine. While intelligence experts emphasize the importance of monitoring Russian networks, the decision faces criticism due to security concerns. Critics argue that halting cyber activities assumes reciprocity from Russia, which has a history of cyber warfare.

US Defence Secretary pete hegseth stated that the US is prepared for conflict with China amid escalating trade tensions. Tensions rose after President Trump doubled tariffs on Chinese imports, prompting China to respond with its own tariffs. Hegseth underscored the importance of military strength, while emphasizing Trump's positive relationship with President Xi Jinping and prioritizing Indo-Pacific military readiness.